As regards the matter, we have crossed the rubicon

Analyze the question The sentence uses an idiom: "to cross the Rubicon." You are asked to choose the option that best explains what it means.

Explain the concept The Rubicon was a small river marking the boundary between Italy and the Roman province of Cisalpine Gaul. In 49 BC, Julius Caesar led his army across it, which was an act of war against the Roman Senate. Once he crossed, there was no turning back.

So "to cross the Rubicon" means to make a decision or take an action that cannot be reversed, and to commit fully to a course of action.

Solution, step by step Sentence: "As regards the matter, we have crossed the Rubicon." Meaning: "Concerning this matter, we have passed the point of no return."

Now check the options:

• A. We are completely at a loss. This means we are confused or helpless. It has nothing to do with the idiom. ✗
• B. We are irrevocably committed. "Irrevocably" means impossible to undo, and "committed" means bound to the course of action. This matches the idiom exactly. ✓
• C. We are already qualified. This is about qualification and is unrelated. ✗
• D. We are perfectly committed. It mentions commitment, but "perfectly" means "completely" and does not capture the idea of no return. The key idea of the idiom is that the decision cannot be reversed. ✗

Answer: B. We are irrevocably committed.

Exam tip Link the idiom to a picture: Caesar crosses the river and burns the bridge behind him. Whenever you see "crossed the Rubicon," think "no going back." Words like irrevocable, irreversible, and point of no return are the usual keys in the options.